Engineer of ArduPilot-based Autonomy at BlackSea Technologies – Curtis Bay, Maryland

Description: MUST BE A US CITIZEN (Please do not apply if you are not)
Company Introduction
At BlackSea Technologies, we don't just innovate; we revolutionize. We are a close-knit team of creative and innovative thinkers specializing in full lifecycle development of cutting-edge maritime technology. At BlackSea, you won't just find a job; you'll find a community of experts who aspire to solve diverse and complex challenges. Be part of a company where your ideas matter, your expertise is valued, and your contributions make a real impact. Together, we are not just sailing; we are charting a course to push boundaries of what's possible.
Overview
We are seeking a contracted engineer to support the integration of ArduPilot-based autonomy into unmanned surface vessels (USVs). The role focuses on enabling interoperability with MAVLink-based autonomy ecosystems and implementing a vehicle control architecture that leverages ArduPilot for USV platforms.The engineer will work closely with our autonomy and systems teams to design, implement, and validate a robust vehicle control architecture capable of supporting advanced autonomy, sensor fusion, mission planning, and resilient communications across distributed maritime environments.This is a hands-on role requiring deep familiarity with autopilot firmware, vehicle control systems, robotics middleware, and communications architectures commonly used in unmanned systems.
Salary Range: $83,158.40 - $162,240Responsibilities
Autopilot Integration
Integrate ArduPilot Rover/Boat firmware into USV platforms. Configure and tune navigation, control loops, and failsafe behaviors.Adapt ArduPilot to support vessel-specific propulsion systems and hardware.
MAVLink Gateway Development
Design and implement a MAVLink gateway/bridge enabling non-ArduPilot systems to interoperate with MAVLink-based ground stations and autonomy tools. Translate between internal vehicle control interfaces and MAVLink telemetry/command streams.Ensure accurate representation of vehicle state and command semantics.
Companion Computer Integration
Develop Linux-based companion applications interfacing with the autopilot via MAVLink. Support integration with perception and mission autonomy software. Implement command/control interfaces such as guided mode, velocity/position control, mission upload/management.
Communications Integration
Support integration of vehicle autonomy systems with tactical networking environments, including MANET and satellite communications links. Ensure reliable command, telemetry, and autonomy data exchange across low-bandwidth, high-latency, and intermittently connected networks. Work with communications engineers to ensure vehicle control and telemetry systems operate effectively across heterogeneous networking architectures.
Hardware Integration
Interface with common autopilot hardware platforms (Cube, Pixhawk, etc.) Integrate sensors including GPS / RTK, IMU, and radar / AIS / EOIR (as applicable). Requirements:

Required Qualifications

• Strong experience with ArduPilot or PX4 autopilot systems
• Deep familiarity with MAVLink protocol
• Proficiency in C++ and/or Python
• Experience with embedded Linux systems
• Understanding of vehicle control systems and robotic navigation
• Experience integrating sensors and actuators on robotic platforms

Desired Experience

• Experience with MANET-based tactical networking environments
• Experience working with satellite communications links (e.g., Starlink, Iridium, or similar systems)
• Experience with marine robotics or USVs
• Experience modifying ArduPilot firmware
• Experience implementing MAVLink bridges or protocol gateways
• Experience with CAN bus, serial sensors, and embedded hardware
• Experience with ROS2 or similar robotics middleware